Local restaurants thank veterans

Military personnel get free food for holiday

November 11, 2012

Local businesses are observing Veterans Day by serving free food to those who are or were in the military.

Applebee's will celebrate today, offering veterans and active duty military personnel a choice of one of the restaurant's Signature entrees - ranging from a 7-ounce sirloin to an oriental chicken salad.

Applebee's Assistant Manager Jeff Espinoza said his staff expects to be busy all day - as they are every year for the Veterans Day recognition.

The restaurant at 2810 Fifth Ave. S. will open at 11 a.m.

Veterans should expect to show proof of military service, which can include official government ID or membership cards from recognized groups such as the American Legion and the VFW.

On Monday, veterans can fill a plate with scrambled eggs, hash browns, meats, pastries and more at Hy-Vee for free during regular breakfast hours.

Technically, that's 6 a.m. to 11 a.m, but "I'm not going to turn anybody down" if they show up earlier, said Kitchen Manager Mike Minkoff.

Also on Monday, the Fort Dodge Perkins, 511 S. 32nd St., will be offering a free Magnificent 7 breakfast to anyone who has ever served in the U.S. miliary or is on current active duty and can show proof of military service.

"This is just a small way to say thank you for your service," said Leon Klemish, managing partner of the local Perkins. "We honor all military service personnel by offering a 10 percent discount anytime they visit. The free meal on Veterans Day is just another way to say thank you."